Klamath

We floated the Iron Gate run as a continuation of the K'íka·c'é·ki Canyon run. We passed the start at K’účasčas at approximately 2:30 p.m. and reached the Iron Gate access at approximately 4:00 p.m., for a float time of about 90 minutes for the full run.

Although 900 cfs is near the low end of the optimal range for this run, the flow was completely adequate for a fun day on the water. We encountered continuous current and a couple of fun surf waves along the way. The shoreline vegetation is well established, and some of the willows are already 10 feet tall. The river has undergone a remarkable recovery, with a riparian zone full of life—birds and insects are abundant—and it's hard to believe it was all beneath a reservoir just a short time ago.

It's always dramatic to end the trip by floating through Iron Gate, with very little evidence remaining of the massive dam that stood there just a couple of years ago. This is a great summer float with easy access that is family friendly for those with experience on moving water—be sure to wear your life jacket.